Economy

No Exit From the US-Saudi Relationship by Jacob Logan Shapiro

The Saudi government is probably not in immediate danger. King Salman and MBS have successfully centralized control of the major nodes of power in Saudi Arabia: the tribal elites, the national guard, the military, the interior ministry and the clerics. The speculation that MBS will be ditched because of Khashoggi’s murder is misplaced; King Salman has ordered a reorganization of Saudi intelligence services as a mea culpa, but he has put MBS directly in charge of the process. There may very well be a crisis of succession when King Salman, who at 82 years old may not last to see what becomes of Vision 2030, dies. MBS has positioned himself as the heir apparent, but he himself skipped a few places in the line of succession, and there’s no guarantee that someone else won’t try to do likewise. But a succession crisis is a far cry from overthrowing the current king, who still enjoys widespread loyalty. While he’s around, there is no institutional force inside the kingdom that can bring about regime change without foreign intervention or outright revolution. This is why King Salman and MBS are so skittish in general, and why they are taking no chances with dissidents like Khashoggi – or any of the numerous other Saudi officials who have been purged in recent years.

All the while, Saudi Arabia will try to accomplish the impossible – a complete reorientation of its political economy in 12 years. It will probably fail. So long as Saudi Arabian oil keeps flowing, the kingdom can buy allies such as Egypt and Pakistan, and so as long as the United States remains committed to countering Iran, the Saudis can be sure that Washington will ignore its human rights abuses. Turkey is better positioned than any other country to capitalize on the friction that comes from this arrangement, and already it is moving to take advantage of the opportunity. It does not need to balance against Iran while the U.S., Israel and Saudi Arabia engage in that hard work. It can simply play the role of a beneficent power and de facto spiritual leader, the sultanate and the caliphate reborn in the 21st century.

It’s ironic that Saudi Arabia and the United States have what they thought they wanted from their relationship. Iran is buckling, and the Islamic State has been crushed. What’s unclear is whether Riyadh and Washington can continue to be useful to each other now that the unintended consequences of their reinvigorated relationship have been laid bare.

About Jacob Logan Shapiro:

Jacob Logan Shapiro is the Director of Analysis for Geopolitical Futures (GPF). At GPF he oversees a team of analysts, the company’s forecasting process and the day-to-day analysis of important geopolitical developments. Prior to working at GPF, Shapiro worked at Stratfor, the geopolitical intelligence firm founded by George Friedman in 1996. He joined GPF after Friedman left Stratfor in May 2015 to help found a new company dedicated to publishing excellent analysis and accurate forecasts based on the geopolitical method Friedman pioneered.

Derek Sweeney is the Director of Speaker Ideas at The Sweeney Agency. www.thesweeneyagency.com. For 15 years Derek has been helping clients find the right Speakers for their events. Derek can be reached at 1-866 727-7555 or [email protected]

Top 10 Speakers on the Trends Shaping the Economy

Understanding the forces that have shaped the current Economy over the past 12 months is fascinating. Understanding the forces that will shape the Economy over the next 12 months is crucial. If you are making a business decision or planning a strategic investment, you need to hear from the Top 10 Speakers on the Trends Shaping the Economy.

Todd Buchholz

Economist and Keynote Speaker Todd Buchholz lights up economics with a wickedly sparkling wit, says the Associated Press. The former White House senior economic advisor, Tiger hedge fund managing director and best-selling author has jousted with such personalities as James Carville and Ben Stein.

Dr. Daniel Crosby

Dr. Daniel Crosby, a behavioral finance expert and sought after thought leader on market psychology, is the founder of Nocturne Capital. Dr. Crosby created the sentiment and valuation measures that serve as the overlay for Nocturne’s tactical strategy. His ideas have appeared in the Huffington Post, Think Advisor, and Risk Management, as well as columns for WealthManagement.com and Investment News.

Ian Goldin

Professor Ian Goldin was the founding Director of the Oxford Martin School from September 2006 to September 2016. He is currently Oxford University Professor of Globalisation and Development and the Director of the Oxford Martin Programme on Technological and Economic Change. He is a Senior Fellow at the Oxford Martin School and a Professorial Fellow at the University’s Balliol College.

Peter Ricchiuti(Ri-Chooty) is originally from Boston but “came to New Orleans just as soon as he’d heard about it.” He teaches finance at Tulane University where he has received numerous teaching awards. He has been featured widely in the financial media including; The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, CNBC and BARRON’s.

Amy Myers Jaffe

Amy Myers Jaffe is a leading expert on the geopolitics of oil and gas and energy security and is an influential thought leader on global energy policy and sustainability. She is Chair, World Economic Forum (Davos) Global Agenda Council on The Future of Oil and Gas, and is executive director for Energy and Sustainability at University of California, Davis.

Jacob Logan Shapiro

Jacob Logan Shapiro is the Director of Analysis for Geopolitical Futures (GPF). At GPF he oversees a team of analysts, the company’s forecasting process and the day-to-day analysis of important geopolitical developments.

Marci Rossell

Marci Rossell electrifies audiences nationwide, speaking on the nexus of economics, politics, culture and the media. Her animated style was honed when she served as the popular, lively Chief Economist for CNBC in the months immediately following September 11th. She takes complex economic issues, often dull in the button-down business press, and makes them relevant to people’s lives, families and careers.

Geoff Colvin

Geoff Colvin is an award-winning thinker, author, broadcaster, and speaker on the most significant trends and issues impacting business and the economy. As Fortune magazine’s senior editor-at-large, Geoff has an insider’s perspective fueled by long-standing relationships with the world’s top leaders in business and government.

Nancy Giordano

Described as endlessly optimistic, Nancy Giordano is a strategic futurist with a drive to help enterprise organizations and visionary leaders transform to meet the escalating expectations ahead. Recognized as one of the world’s top female futurists, she has spent her career building, shaping and evolving a portfolio of $50 billion worth of major global brands.

Derek Sweeney is the Director of Speaker Ideas at The Sweeney Agency. www.thesweeneyagency.com. For 15 years Derek has been helping clients find the right Speakers for their events. Derek can be reached at 1-866-727-7555 or [email protected]

Top 10 Speakers on the Trends Shaping The Financial Industry

The Financial Industry is facing incredible change as powerful forces are influencing how markets, clients and Industry Leaders operate. From Geopolitics to Technology to Demographics, Financial executives need to know what’s ahead so they can anticipate and be ready. The 10 Speakers below deliver powerful presentations filled with ideas and insights into the trends Shaping Finance.

Jacob Logan Shapiro

Jacob Logan Shapiro is the Director of Analysis for Geopolitical Futures (GPF). At GPF he oversees a team of analysts, the company’s forecasting process and the day-to-day analysis of important geopolitical developments.

Daniel Burrus

Daniel Burrus is considered one of the World’s Leading Futurists on Global Trends and Innovation. The New York Times has referred to him as one of the top three business gurus in the highest demand as a speaker.

Mike Walsh

Mike Walsh is the CEO of Tomorrow, a global consultancy on designing business for the 21st century. He advises leaders on how to thrive in this era of disruptive technological change. Mike’s clients include many of the global Fortune 500, and as a sought-after keynote speaker he regularly shares the stage with world leaders and business icons alike.

Scott McKain

Scott McKain creates captivating presentations and bestselling books which clearly reveal how to create more compelling connections between you and your customers and how to stand out and move up, regardless of the economic climate in your industry.

Marci Rossell

Marci Rossell electrifies audiences nationwide, speaking on the nexus of economics, politics, culture and the media. Her animated style was honed when she served as the popular, lively Chief Economist for CNBC in the months immediately following September 11th.

Peter Ricchiuti

Peter Ricchiuti has been featured widely in the financial media including; The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, CNBC and BARRON’s. Peter has addressed more than 1100 groups in 47 states and several countries. He is also the host of “Out To Lunch”, a weekly business show on National Public Radio in New Orleans.

Dr. Daniel Crosby

Dr. Daniel Crosby, a behavioral finance expert and sought after thought leader on market psychology, is the founder of Nocturne Capital. Dr. Crosby created the sentiment and valuation measures that serve as the overlay for Nocturne’s tactical strategy.

Sallie Krawcheck

With a reputation for integrity, creativity, independence of thought, a sense of humor and an unrelenting focus on results, Sallie Krawcheck has built a career that has reached the top levels of success across a range of functions: as a senior corporate executive, as a research analyst and now as an entrepreneur. Sallie Krawcheck is also CEO and Co-Founder of Ellevest, a soon-to-be-launched digital investment platform for women. Recently named number 9 on Fast Company’s list of the “100 Most Creative People 2014,” she has also been referred to as one of the most successful and influential executives in financial services.

Brett King

Brett King, the best selling author of the groundbreaking book BANK 2.0, is the founder of the first direct mobile bank in the US and UK (Movenbank) and a strategic advisor to the world’s leading financial services organizations.

Derek Sweeney is the Director of Speaker Ideas at The Sweeney Agency. www.thesweeneyagency.com. For 15 years Derek has been helping clients find the right Speakers for their events. Derek can be reached at 1-866-727-7555 or [email protected]

10 Highest Rated New Speakers

We are constantly on the lookout for new Speakers and have reviewed over 12,000 in the 15 years we have been in business. Before we add any new Speaker to our site we review their references, check out their backgrounds, and make sure they have what it takes to deliver outstanding presentations for our clients. Here are our highest rated new Speakers of 2017:

Bill TaylorCo-founder of Fast Company Magazine, Best-selling Author and Speaker on Business Strategy & Growth

10 Highest Rated Speakers on Sales

Clients regularly ask us for Speakers that can deliver presentations to inspire and educate their Sales teams. Speakers who can share new skills, ideas and strategies that can motivate sales people to take their game to the next level. Based on our research and client feedback, here are our highest rated speakers on Sales.

7 Top Speakers on Making an Impact at Work

Clients regularly ask us for Speakers that will inspire or motivate their people to be more productive and have a greater impact at Work. People who make a greater impact at work tend to get noticed and promoted. But having a greater impact means different things to different people. Researchers at Harvard Business School studying diaries from 12,000 work days showed that the happiest and most productive days were those marked by a sense of progress and impact. Having an impact at work is essential to a person’s sense of accomplishment; but more importantly, it re-enforces good working habits and motivates people to do even better—a win for both the individual and the organization alike. So what can you do to have a greater impact at work and get noticed? Here are some suggestions from 7 top-rated speakers on steps you can follow:

Nicole Lipkin, Author, Speaker, and CEO of Equilibria Leadership Consulting: Be a solution person not a problem person. The people that stand out in a positive, promotable way are the ones that take the initiative to figure out a better way of doing something without being asked.

Scott Zimmer, Speaker and Generational Expert: “Start moving ahead in your career by recognizing how others approach work. Do you have colleagues or a manager who prefer to collaborate? Find ways to contribute in a positive way! Does your manager prefer to work independently? Demonstrate you can handle projects on your own with little guidance. Does your boss come from a generation where hard work equals long hours? Arrive to work before them. Think you’ve crossed everything off your list for the day and it’s time to go home? Do ONE more thing. Over time, the decision makers at your company will notice your actions, and with some patience and hard work, you’ll see yourself promoted.” –

Ed Brodow, Author and Negotiation Expert :Get your employer to affirm that you are a valuable asset to the organization. Once you receive the employer’s validation that they need you, it will be difficult for them to deny your request. Then be prepared to walk if you can’t get the promotion you desire. In a workplace negotiation, your willingness to walk away gives you tremendous power. The employer will sense it. Conversely, if you are desperate for the job and perceive that you have no alternatives, they will sense your desperation. Face it, the worst thing that can happen is, you’ll have to look for another job – a BETTER job. They can’t shoot you! If you know what you want and stick to it, you will win no matter what happens.

Dianna Booher,Author, Speaker, and Communication ExpertCommunicate strategically: Summarize succinctly if you intend to get to the C-suite. If you can’t write your message in a sentence, you can’t say it in an hour.

Tim Sanders, Bestselling Author, Speaker, and Former Chief Solutions Officer at Yahoo!: The best way to get promoted at work is to demonstrate a combination of loyalty to the company’s needs and an increasing competency to solve them. One of my mentors, Stanley Marcus Jr., told me that when he looks for associates to promote at Nieman Marcus, he always sought out those who felt a sense of responsibility to look after what he termed ‘the baby.’ In his view, every company is a baby that can’t take care of itself without the thoughtful stewardship of its managers and leaders. There are several ways to claw yourself to the top of the ladder, but really caring about the company’s success is the only one that will sustain your position over time.

Olivia Fox Cabane, Author, Speaker, and Director of Innovative Leadership at Stanford’s StartX Program: With people’s rapidly decreasing attention span, you need to make a bigger impact in a shorter amount of time. The secret is charisma. The good news: it’s not innate, it can be learned.

Bill Acheson, Speaker and Nonverbal Communication Expert: You can tell me how confident you are and how much you love your job, but I need to see it. Nonverbal communication is always more emotionally revealing and more emotionally accurate than what you say. What time do you arrive and what time do you leave the workplace? Is your energy level high, suggesting interest in what you do, or low, suggesting that you are just counting the hours. Remember, every feeling, intention, and thought is displayed through body language. My question is this, ‘Are you astute enough to understand the message?’

12 Highest Rated Speakers of May 2018

The results are in. Each month, companies come to us asking for Speaker ideas on a variety of topics to help inspire, educate, and inform their audiences. We do the research and deliver specific Speaker suggestions that our clients can choose from. Based on their response, here are our highest rated Speakers of May 2018.

Dr. George Friedman, Speaker and Author on the Future of Geopolitics

George Friedman is an internationally recognized geopolitical forecaster and bestselling author of Flashpoints: The Emerging Crisis in Europe and The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century.

Mark is an expert on executive leadership, business strategy, and innovation who has spent over 25 years leading teams and building companies from the ground up. He delivers actionable, valuable and practical advice for leaders at all levels of an organization.

Josh Linkner, Speaker on Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership

Josh Linkner – who started his career as a jazz guitarist – personifies creativity, entrepreneurship and disruptive innovation. He has been the founder and CEO of four tech companies, which sold for a combined value of over $200 million.

Garry Golden is a professionally trained futurist who writes, speaks, and consults about issues that will shape society and business in the 21st century. His uncanny sense of what will hit—and what won’t—can be seen in futurethink’s research and heard in his international keynotes and corporate leadership seminars. His insights on how to align talent development to coming industry and market transitions have been shared with and implemented by such organizations as the McGraw-Hill Companies, Goodyear, S&P, and Reliant Energy.

Mike Abrashoff’s inspiring speeches challenge people to re-imagine their own leadership thinking and instill a renewed responsibility for results and success. At the age of 36, the Navy selected Abrashoff to become Commander of USS Benfold, at the time the most junior commanding officer in the Pacific Fleet.

For two decades Polly LaBarre has used her writing and speaking to help make organizations more resilient, innovative and inspiring – and to embolden and equip leaders at every level to make a meaningful impact.

Stuart Knight has written, produced and starred in live presentations that have been seen by over one million people and each year speaks internationally helping some of the world’s biggest companies reach new levels of success. When he is not on the road speaking, you may have seen or heard him on some of nation.’s biggest TV and Radio stations where he is often asked for his expert opinion on high level communication.

Jacob Logan Shapiro is the Director of Analysis for Geopolitical Futures (GPF). At GPF he oversees a team of analysts, the company’s forecasting process and the day-to-day analysis of important geopolitical developments. Shapiro is a regular speaker at international conferences and has appeared both in print and on television as an expert on international affairs in such places as MSNBC, CNBC, the New York Times, and Fox News.

Gary Hamel, Business Management and Strategy Speaker

Gary Hamelis one of the world’s most influential and iconoclastic business thinkers. He has worked with leading companies across the globe and is a dynamic and sought-after management speaker. Hamel has been on the faculty of the London Business School for more than 30 years and is the director of the Management Innovation eXchange.

Marci Rossell, CNBC Chief Economist and Speaker on Finance

Marci Rossell electrifies audiences nationwide, speaking on the nexus of economics, politics, culture and the media. Her animated style was honed when she served as the popular, lively Chief Economist for CNBC in the months immediately following September 11th. She takes complex economic issues, often dull in the button-down business press, and makes them relevant to people’s lives, families and careers.

Rick Searfoss, Astronaut and Speaker on Leadership and Teamwork

Engaging and entertaining, Rick speaks from the heart to movingly share the lessons of human space flight. His stunning multimedia presentations filled with spectacular message reinforcing images uplift, inspire, and move to action. A great mix of down-to earth style and out-of-this-world excitement as he shares the astronauts’ tools for effective leadership, teamwork, and innovative results that count!

Derek Sweeney is the Director of Speaker Ideas at The Sweeney Agency. www.thesweeneyagency.com. For 15 years Derek has been helping clients find the right Speakers for their events. Derek can be reached at 1-866-727-7555 or [email protected]

The 12 Most Requested Speakers For 2016

The Speaker finishes, the crowd is on its feet with thunderous applause and right away the buzz starts. Demand for a Speaker is based on impressive past reviews and word of mouth. When word gets out there that a Speaker delivered an impressive presentation that had audiences talking, people want to know if they can have that Speaker at their event. Most Clients book their Speakers 3-4 months out but the buzz in 2015 around the 12 Great Speakers listed below had clients booking them 8-12 months before their 2016 events:

What is it about having a positive outlook and being happy that improves performance and fosters success? In his life’s work, first at Harvard University, then at his consultancy, GoodThink, Shawn Achor has found the connection linking positivity to performance. His research shows that happiness and well-being at work is the foundation of a productive and optimized organization and makes a huge difference for a company’s bottom line. Shawn’s message becomes even more pertinent in 2016 as a greater number of workers clamor for better work-life balance and job satisfaction. Through his TED talk with over 11 million views, his highly-rated television special on PBS, and his speaking engagements in more than 50 countries, Shawn has shown audiences world-wide how to reap the benefits of a positive mindset, how to overcome challenges, and succeed in both work and in life.

The importance of a motivated, functional team to organizational success cannot be overstated. Robyn Benincasa is a World Champion Adventure Racer and an award-winning motivational speaker. The past 20 years have seen Robyn and her teams successfully race through the jungles of Borneo, climb the Himalayan peaks of Tibet, swim the rivers of Fiji, and fight the brush fires of Southern California. It is through these life-affirming and team-building experiences that Robyn developed her unique perspective on what it takes to succeed against all odds and go the distance at work and in life: Human Synergy and Teamwork. With this key message, Robyn has ignited meetings and motivated audiences to look at how they can transform their own groups into World Class Teams. In 2016, her quest to impart this lesson continues.

At just 21 years old, Ty Bennett co-founded a company that grew to over $20 million in annual revenue before he turned 30. Today, Ty is a speaker who excites audiences with practical ideas and effective strategies on Leadership, Communication, and Sales based on his own experiences as a successful entrepreneur. A naturally gifted presenter, he has been a sure-fire hit in 2015 for clients like RE/MAX, Johnson & Johnson, and Russell Investments. 2016 promises to be an even bigger year for Ty as he offers a young, fresh voice using interactive presentations that are as engaging as they are inspiring and motivational.

The notion that the best business ideas come solely from innately creative and brilliant minds is a mistaken belief that leads to apathy and inaction within organizations and their employees. The Dean of Boston College’s Carroll School of Management, Andy Boynton is an expert on helping organizations implement his proprietary methodology for harnessing the power of teams to “significantly improve problem-solving speed, innovation and results” – A skill of great importance considering the rate of innovation and change in business – projected to only increase in 2016. Innate creativity and brilliance aside, great ideas come to those who are in the habit of looking for great ideas! In his engaging presentation, Andy will show you how.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) has become a buzzword in business circles ever since a landmark study in 1990 found that people with high EI tend to make the best leaders and team players because of their ability to understand, empathize, and connect with others around them. Travis Bradberry is the award-winning author of the #1 bestselling book, Emotional Intelligence 2.0, and the co-founder of TalentSmart ⎯ a consultancy that serves more than 75% of Fortune 500 companies and the world’s leading provider of emotional intelligence tests and training. With increasing globalization and corporate consolidation in 2016, the importance of EI in organizational cohesion and health cannot be ignored as leaders manage people of differing backgrounds in ever growing numbers. Travis contends that successful leaders know how to handle their own emotions, understand the emotions of others, and find a balanced approach to managing both.

Geoff Colvin has been an editor and columnist at Fortune Magazine for more than 35 years, covering a variety of current events and offering analyses on how those events affect the greater financial, political, and economic landscape. His speaking career has taken him on engagements in six continents where he delivered on topics ranging from Leadership and Management, Economic Trends and Global Competitiveness, to the intersection of Politics and Business. In 2016, Geoff’s insights into the workings of the global economic and geopolitical arena will remain an invaluable resource for businesses and organizations.

The development and promotion of a healthy organizational culture is crucial to helping people within companies work together as a team. Chester Elton has spent his career studying the intricacies of organizational culture, teamwork, and motivation. He is the co-author of the New York Times bestsellers All In, The Carrot Principle, and The Orange Revolutionwhich have been called “must-read(s) for modern managers” by no less than Larry King of CNN. Chester has developed a road-map that managers can use to create a high-achieving culture within their own teams, increasing productivity, and making a real impact on the bottom line. In 2016, the speaker who the Globe and Mail calls the “Apostle of Appreciation,” will continue to make waves in the corporate world as he extols the merits of passionate engagement and a culture of possibility within organizations.

Dr. George Friedman is the foremost geopolitical authority in the world today. He is the Founder and Chairman of Geopolitical Futures, a new online publication dedicated to forecasting the course of global events. He also founded Stratfor, a global intelligence and consulting firm that helps clients identify opportunities, make strategic decisions, and manage political and security risks. Dr. Friedman is invited to speak at conferences and business meetings on five continents where his insights on events shaping international affairs and business are highly prized. As we move into 2016, the continuing migration of millions of refugees into Europe coupled with the slowing economic engines of the BRIC countries, Dr. Friedman’s overarching knowledge and expertise of geopolitical forces is poised to make an even bigger impact on the world stage.

Dr. Frank Murtha is an expert on Investor Psychology and Behavioral Finance who is known for his ability to take the weighty scientific and academic subjects of his training and communicate them in a practical, and often humorous way. Frank helps financial professionals understand the underlying emotions and behaviors that may affect their management of investments as they go through the Capital Market Cycle. Since the financial crisis of 2008, the markets have seen the second longest period of growth in history. By mid-2015 however, the Chinese stock markets have collapsed, oil prices are less than half their value over the previous year, and the Euro Zone’s tenuous economic recovery is threatened by the refugee crisis. How do investors manage expectations and not give in to fear and panic, or conversely, to speculative buying sprees? With looming economic uncertainty in 2016, Frank’s expertise is bound to be in great demand.

Current levels of innovation drive business cycles in months, not years. How do business leaders keep up with this break-neck pace of change in the market place, maintain their organizations’ relevance, and fuel growth? Josh Linkner believes the answer lies in creativity. A four-time tech entrepreneur, a two-time New York Times Bestselling Author, and a professional Jazz guitarist, Josh has built an exceptionally successful career using the power of creative disruption. As a speaker, he helps audiences harness creativity, innovation, and re-invention to develop actionable strategies that produce measurable outcomes. Using highly engaging, visually-rich presentations, Josh enlivens meetings and events –2016 will prove no different.

Marilyn Tam’s story of never giving up on one’s dreams in spite of daunting odds and brutal circumstances is inspirational. Growing up as an abused, neglected child in Hong Kong, she left home as a teen and moved to America alone. Through sheer determination and hard work, Marilyn achieved international and humanitarian success, first becoming President of Reebok/CCM, then CEO of Aveda Corporation, and for the past 19 years, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Us Foundation. As a speaker, her presentations on leadership excellence, business management, and diversity are a hit with corporate audiences. But especially because of the continuing global events that will impact 2016, her message on women in the workplace, corporate social and environmental responsibility, and organizational well-being are timely and of the essence.

Mark Thompson has been leading teams and building companies for over 25 years, a career that places him among a select group of thought-leaders on executive leadership, business strategy, and innovation. His clients include some of the most recognizable brands and Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, Nike, Ford, Coca Cola, and the Virgin Group. Much in demand in 2015, 2016 is shaping up to be an even bigger one for Mark. With more companies moving towards consolidation, new technologies and rapid innovation disrupting business models, and the pressure on leaders to deliver and perform increasing, Mark’s expertise and experience will be needed in the new year.

*Speakers are listed in alphabetical order

5 Speakers that CEOs are Talking About

CEOs need to see the big picture, they need to be able to spot storms in the distance and future successes when they are just ideas on a table. To do that properly they need to know about the forces shaping their markets, the technologies changing their business and new ways of attracting, managing, and keeping their talent.

The 5 Speakers below deliver fascinating presentations on the key forces shaping business and what CEOs need to do to succeed in a constantly changing environment.

We no longer live or work in isolated environments. The ever-increasing interconnectivity of the globe compels organizations to not just observe what is going on in their own backyards, but to extend their watch beyond their own borders. Dr. George Friedman is an expert on geopolitics and how business is being impacted by both events and individuals half way across the world. His expert analyses evaluate global trends and identify who and what will affect your organization – pointing out areas where major change will take place or identifying emerging markets that show promise and future profitability. His fascinating insights appeal to audiences from executives of large corporations to anyone who wants to keep their fingers on the pulse of global dynamics.

Technology is no longer relevant to just the IT department – it has become so important and ingrained in every facet of an organization that it is now everyone’s business. Scott Klososky’s presentations explain how technology has become integrated into our daily lives and business and how organizations can leverage this into profit. Scott is particularly adept at addressing those in leadership positions, illustrating the importance of the “technology infused leader.” Scott’s strategic directions and unique perspective on technology, trends, innovation, and leadership make his keynotes memorable and applicable to every business.

Billions of dollars are lost each year due to employee disengagement. Organizations with low employee morale, uncommunicative teams, and general detachment impact every business’s bottom line. In his presentations, Patrick Lencioni addresses all the reasons and practices that contribute to low employee engagement and provides practical tools that can be implemented immediately to alleviate these costly issues. Patrick uses storytelling and humor to captivate his audiences and his messages are simple, elegant, and accessible. His presentations are not only intriguing, they provide invaluable insights into how to create and sustain a happier and more profitable company.

Generational conflict is one of the most pressing issues facing business today. Cam Marston is the leading authority on how the shifting workplace and marketplace demographics influence your business. Each generation in the workplace today has its own unique qualities and Cam explains how to recruit, retain, and manage each of these diverse groups. Furthermore, he provides insight and practical tools on how to sell to each of them. Cam’s deep understanding of the generational differences will inform employers as to how to ease tensions that arise in the office, cultivate a collaborative working environment, and increase sales!

There are two types of leaders in business today: those that place themselves above everyone else, continuously illustrating how talented and smart they are – and those who recognize the talent and intelligence in their people, and who work diligently to cultivate the capabilities of everyone around them. The latter group is what Liz Wiseman calls “The Multipliers” – those who elevate their employees and multiply talent, intelligence, and profit. Liz Wiseman’s presentations are essential for leaders who want to make a real difference in their organization. Her keynotes are poignant and perceptive, leaving audiences with the understanding of what makes a great leader – and how to become one.

*Speakers are listed in alphabetical order

5 Speakers Audiences Will be Talking About in January 2016

January is prime-time for sales rallies, kick-offs, and launches. Meet the 5 Speakers whose incredible energy and enthusiasm for their subjects bring a renewed sense of purpose to every January event. If your goals, ambitions, and dreams are big for 2016 these are the Speakers who will help make them happen.

Dan Clark’s energetic and inspiring keynotes could take you from January 1 to December 31 all on their own. Dan is one of the most requested Speakers on the circuit for clients who want to inspire their audience to raise the bar on everything from sales to life. His process is simple and actionable as he outlines the why, how, and when of either selling or living with passion. Dan’s presentations leave attendees with a deeper understanding of the next steps that ought to be taken to generate more – more engagement, more loyalty, and more revenue.

Filled with energy and enthusiasm, Chip Eichelberger’s presentations motivate and electrify audiences. Through small changes, Chip will guide your team on how to drive BIG results. Attendees will leave his presentation feeling equipped with the tools to deepen their existing client relationships and excited to begin new ones.

You’ve had a brilliant idea that is creative, innovative, and has the possibility to generate a lot of revenue for your company – but great ideas are not worth much if they cannot be put into action. Transforming raw, unpolished ideas into a reality can be very challenging and Josh Linkner’s innovative presentations provide the motivation, tools, and methodologies to turn those big ideas into big results… with big profits!

Marci Rossell will energize your audience as she shines an optimistic light on the issues and trends shaping the Economy. Marci’s pertinent, upbeat, and thought provoking commentaries on the markets and the Economy will open audiences’ eyes to the challenges and opportunities for the year ahead.

Marc Wayshak is an All-American athlete, Ivy League graduate, and start-up entrepreneur who can teach your audience how to excel at Sales in the year ahead. His presentation on The Game Plan Selling System, a revolutionary sales methodology, is based on three tenets: Be Distinct; Be Systematic; and, live by the Prospecting Play Book. With his coaching, Marc’s audiences leave his presentations eager to put his innovative selling system into use.